Age 4. These classes are especially designed to create an interest in dance, develop rhythm and to teach the necessity of cooperation. 45 minute classes.

Pre-Ballet

Classes for preschool/kindergarten, 1st and 2nd grade students.
Pre-ballet classes prepare the children for classical training which begins at the age of 8. Music visualization is stressed along with rhythmic development and coordination. Tap dancing is included in the 1st and 2nd grade classes.

Ballet

Classical ballet technique training begins at the age of 8, with an emphasis on line, posture, control and execution. Ballet is taught through both barre and centre work. Variations of all techniques of ballet are taught, as well as terminology, choreography and repertoire. Additionally, students are exposed to modern styling, and work toward excellence in performance quality.

Cecchetti Ballet

Weekly ballet technique classes rely strongly on the Cecchetti (Italian) Method as contained in the syllabus devised by The Cecchetti Council of America, which has an internationally-accepted set of examinations for students and for accreditation of teachers. All young dancers at Westberry will have the opportunity to participate in examinations in the Cecchetti syllabus given annually, in order to demonstrate their increasing mastery of the technical requirements of the art of ballet.

Sur le Pointe

Concentration on preparing the feet and ankles for pointe work through strengthening exercises and technique. Toe or pointe dancing is available as part of the advanced classes. The student must have several years of training and have worked through Grades I and II Cecchetti. Also, the student must be enrolled in a minimum of two classes per week. Pointe students wil be placed on pointe shoes at the discrection of the teacher.

Tap Dancing

Gain an exposure to both contemporary and classical tap rhythms. A variety of music is utilized. Tap dancing begins at the 1st grade level and is included with ballet as a combination class through 6th grade. Students in grade 7 and higher are placed into tap/broadway character classes which are separate from ballet classes.

Jazz / Dance Team

Contemporary jazz styles are taught including classical jazz, urban/funk, lyrical jazz and hip hop. Technique work is the foundation of each class. Every class includes warm ups, technqiue, across the floor work and a dance combination. Dance team is a dynamic class that focuses on precision, projecting energy and entertaining a crowd. Routines will be taught as well as the technical basis needed for dance teams.

Modern Dance

This contemporary dance technique explores the balance between contraction and release, tension, personal expression and the use of breath in movement. Modern dance has an energy that radiates from the dancer's center and dictates the power behind the movement.